Young Voices, New Connections: A Recap of Our YAC Interest Mixer
An afternoon of fun, connection, and youth leadership with the M. Ariel Love Foundation.
On Friday, October 16, 2026, the M. Ariel Love Foundation brought young people together for our Youth Advisory Council (YAC) Interest Mixer at Main Event in Stafford, Texas.
And what an exciting afternoon it was!
The mixer provided an opportunity for youth to connect, enjoy a fun and welcoming environment, and learn more about becoming involved with the Foundation's Youth Advisory Council. While the afternoon was filled with laughter and new connections, the purpose behind the gathering was much bigger.
We wanted young people to see that their voices matter and that they have a place in shaping the conversations that affect their lives.
Creating Connections with Purpose
At the M. Ariel Love Foundation, we believe meaningful youth engagement begins with creating spaces where young people feel comfortable being themselves. Not every conversation about healthy relationships, self-worth, and leadership has to take place in a classroom or formal workshop. Sometimes, those connections begin through shared experiences, laughter, and simply spending time together.
Our YAC Interest Mixer was designed with that in mind: to introduce young people to the Foundation in an environment that felt inviting, engaging, and approachable. The afternoon was also an opportunity to begin building relationships that can grow into future leadership, service, and community involvement.
More Than a Youth Group
The M. Ariel Love Foundation's Youth Advisory Council is an opportunity for young people to become active participants in the work we do. Through YAC, members are encouraged to share their perspectives, develop leadership skills, collaborate with peers, and help shape initiatives focused on healthy relationships, boundaries, self-worth, and community awareness.
We recognize that adults don't have all the answers when it comes to understanding the experiences and challenges young people face today. That's why we believe youth should have a meaningful role in developing the programs and conversations intended to support them.
We don't simply want young people in the room. We want their voices at the table.
Building a Community of Young Leaders
One of the most meaningful aspects of the mixer was the opportunity to bring young people together around a shared purpose. Every connection creates possibilities: a new friendship, a new idea, an opportunity to lead, or the confidence to speak up about something important.
We hope that participants walked away knowing that the M. Ariel Love Foundation is a place where their perspectives are valued, and their participation can make a difference.
We're excited about the relationships being built and the opportunities ahead for our Youth Advisory Council.
The Invitation Doesn't End Here
Were you unable to attend the mixer? Or did you participate and want to learn more?
There's still an opportunity to get involved!
We're inviting interested young people to explore joining our Youth Advisory Council and becoming part of a growing community of youth leaders.
Not ready for membership? You can also subscribe to receive updates about upcoming youth events, workshops, and opportunities to connect with the Foundation.
We believe engagement can begin in different ways, and every positive connection matters.
Thank You for Showing Up!
To the young people and families who joined us, thank you for making our YAC Interest Mixer such an enjoyable experience. We also appreciate everyone who helped organize, support, and create a welcoming space for our participants.
This gathering was another step toward building a community where young people feel encouraged to lead, express themselves, and recognize their worth. And we're looking forward to what's next!
Young voices matter. Healthy relationships matter. Community matters.
Safe Love Saves Lives.
M. Ariel Love Foundation
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